Oral health is very important if you want to keep your teeth into old age. In fact, research shows that good oral health helps to maintain good overall health, the two are connected. In this article, you will know about the Top Reasons Why A Good Dentist Will Look at Your Tongue.
You may not think about it but your body is covered in bacteria, most of which are harmless. However, some are not and they are looking for a way into your body, specifically your bloodstream. Your mouth is the perfect way in as there are hundreds of blood vessels just below the surface. Bacteria can collect around your teeth and, when you have a cavity, they will find their way into your body.
Bacteria entering this way can cause an array of infections and the plaque around your teeth can get into your bloodstream and help to block arteries.
In short, you need a good Alexandria dentist to check your oral health regularly and catch any issues before they become a more serious problem. Top Reasons Why A Good Dentist Will Look at Your Tongue-
Why The Tongue Needs To be Checked
Most bacteria need food, air, and moisture to survive. That’s why your mouth is such an attractive place. But, your tongue is the best place for bacteria to gather as it is always moist and has trace elements of food to feed the bacteria. This is the reason that dentists recommend you don’t just brush your teeth, you should brush your tongue as well.
Your tongue will tell your dentist about your bacteria level and it can indicate several serious conditions.
- Cancer
Oral cancer affects approximately 2,500 people a year in Australia. If it is spotted early then the majority of people can be cured and continue living a high-quality happy life. Your dentist will be able to spot the first signs of cancer as abnormal patches on your tongue and cheeks. This can help you to get the treatment you need early.
- Sleep Disorders
There are many reasons why you may be suffering from sleep disorders but one that most people don’t consider is structural issues inside the mouth. For example, a tongue that is too large for the mouth will partially block the airway when sleeping and cause breathing issues which will affect your ability to get a good night’s sleep.
While a doctor may spot this issue, a regular visit to the dentist is more likely to illuminate the issue, they deal with tongues every day.
- Knowledge Of Wide Variety Of Conditions
Dentists are trained in the anatomy of the mouth and teeth, which gives them a unique insight into the structure of your mouth and any indications you have any issue. This can be a swollen tongue, one that has changed color, or one that has bumps or other growth.
These all indicate potential issues, as does change in taste buds and difficulty moving your tongue. The bottom line is the dentist is more likely to know what the issue is and be able to take steps to resolve it.